Featured News
Applications now open for WCC's Future Apprenticeships Fund
If you are an SME based in Warwickshire, you can now apply for three different funds to either recruit new talent or upskill your existing staff through an apprenticeship.
Warwickshire Skills Hub is delighted to announce that we are now taking applications for Warwickshire County Council’s Future Apprenticeships Fund.
This funding is part of Warwickshire County Council’s recently launched £900,000, Future Skills Programme, designed to deliver a diverse range of support to help job-seekers into, or back into, work through apprenticeships.
If you are an SME based in Warwickshire, you can now apply for three different funds to either recruit new talent or upskill your existing staff through an apprenticeship.
Future Apprenticeships: Salary Support Programme - If you take on an apprentice in new and emerging technologies such as Vehicle Electrification, Battery Technology, Digital Skills or a standard that supports the Net Zero and Sustainability agenda, you can apply to this fund for £2,000 salary support.
Future Focus Apprenticeships Programme: New Direction 50+ - SMEs taking on or upskilling an existing member of staff who is aged 50+, can apply to this fund to cover the cost of the 5% employer contribution for their apprenticeship training. Businesses can also apply for up to a maximum of £750 from the Additional Training Fund. This is for training that is identified outside of the apprenticeship standard. This can also be used to match fund an employer contribution should the amount exceed the WCC support.
New Direction 50+ Skills Investment Fund - Designed to support over 50s in gaining new knowledge and skills to help them progress within the workplace. It’s available to Warwickshire businesses who are wishing to invest in the progression of a 50+ employee to undertake further training which contributes to the future needs of the business. The programme offers up to £1,000 grant funding towards training or a qualification to be delivered by a college or independent training provider.
Businesses wanting to make multiple applications for more than one employee may be considered up to a maximum of five up until 31st March 2024, to be reviewed on a case-by-case basis and to be evidenced in a business growth plan outlining their future skills requirements. From April 1st 2024, this number will reduce to three applications per business.
Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, Cllr Martin Watson, said: “The Future Skills programme underlines the commitment of Warwickshire Skills Hub to give maximum opportunity to residents of the county to fulfil their potential and help keep the economy strong. With its well-thought out and comprehensive breadth of support, this programme is a major and very welcome addition to the support available to businesses, education-providers and jobseekers across the county from Warwickshire Skills Hub.”
If you would like to know more about any of the above funding programmes and how you can apply, please contact Louise Stolz, Future Skills Business Support Advisor: louisestolz@warwickshire.gov.uk
Wincanton open their doors and minds to hiring inclusively.
"The employer seems like they would treat you like a human being and be kind. He even sat on the sofa and spoke to me about what I need to be happy at work...I've never had anything like that before."
WSES supported eight customers to travel on public transport via train and bus to explore what it would be like to work and commute to the Wincanton site at Hams Hall Distribution Site..
The octet attended a behind the scenes tour to challenge myths around what is entailed by working in a warehouse environment. A number of customers who attended the tour had negative experiences of previous paid work in this sector, so meeting an inclusive, supportive employer was invaluable for them. Two of the customers who attended had never caught a bus before but now felt confident they would now be able to use this mode of transport in the future to travel to work, broadening their horizons for future job searches.
Nick Blencowe, General Manager at Wincanton, gave all potential employees the chance to see different roles, inspiring them to imagine themselves progressing in the workplace...especially when they realised that they didn't need a driving license to drive the forklift trucks!
One customer, Daniel, said: "This is the best warehouse I've ever been to. The employer seems like they would treat you like a human being and be kind, he even sat on the sofa and spoke to me about what I need to be happy at work, I've never had anything like that before."
Research carried out by BASE (British Association of Supported Employment) shows that a person with a learning disability is likely to stay with an employer 3.5 times longer than a neurotypical employee. Supported employment could be the answer to many companies who rely on agencies and experience high staff turnovers.
Charlotte Smith, Delivery Lead for WSES, says: "It is so refreshing to see big companies like Wincanton opening their eyes to the potential of recruiting diversely. I encourage any business to reach out and get in touch to see how we can help you shape your roles and processes to be more inclusive.
"Our service understands that, while doing something different can be daunting, if you follow the same processes, you will always get the same results. We also appreciate that it is not easy to know where to start, so having a service like us helps taking that first step a little easier. Knowing there are specialists behind you every step along the way who can upskill your staff and support your employees is an essential part of what we do. We can be there to support advertising jobs on the Fair Chance job portal to completing regular reviews with no time limit once employment begins.
"After attending the tour at Wincanton, one of our customers applied for a role in a warehouse closer to home with a renewed confidence and we are pleased to say that he secured the job. Another customer has just started paid employment with Nick and his team after being offered an informal walk around and a visit as a reasonable adjustment to the interview process.
"Wincanton were absolutely fantastic the way they welcomed us and our customers and we are looking forward to working with Nick so that he can see the benefits of supported employment, where good job matching can prevent companies having to rely on agencies to fill roles. Nick's understanding of social value and community spirit is admirable and we hope to work with more employers like Wincanton in the future, who understand that by making a small adjustment, you could attract the perfect person for the job."
More Inclusive Industry Tours will be arranged in 2024, so if you feel your workplace would be open to participating, please feel free to reach out to our team to discuss further. Please contact charlottesmith@warwickshire.gov.uk
Help your local businesses make it a 'Warwickshire Christmas'
‘Support your local businesses this festive season’ is the message from an interactive Warwickshire County Council campaign.
The Warwickshire Christmas campaign has returned this year to encourage customers to shop locally and take advantage of all the high quality businesses across the county’s towns and villages.
The drive is being supported by a social media campaign by Warwickshire Towns Network, which is showcasing a festive town centre mix. The campaign highlights the uniqueness of each town and their offer, including the independent retail offer and uses high-quality images and shareable content, enabling businesses to support each other.
Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, Cllr Martin Watson said: “In towns and villages throughout Warwickshire we are blessed by a wonderful array of small independent businesses which offer all sorts of fantastic opportunities for festive shopping.
“These businesses are the lifeblood of our communities all year round so let’s all support them at this important time. It’s not just about the benefit of the businesses though - shopping local also makes lots of sense for us as consumers when we find we can get all we need right on our doorstep!”
The campaign has so far reached more than 21,000 businesses, residents and visitors on social media and enjoyed more than 1,700 interactions. Highlights have included Santa Claus exploring Coleshill’s many independents, with his trip to boutique Glitzy Bits reaching hundreds, and dozens of Rugby’s residents and businesses sharing their favourite independents in the town off the back of one post.
* To find out what other support is available to your business, please call CW Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747
Start-up support provides springboard for Nuneaton entrepreneur
"The Start-Up programme is a perfect example of how collaborative support can work brilliantly to offer businesses exactly the help they need.”
A Nuneaton man who launched a new business to give his family a better life has urged others who are thinking of doing the same to seek support.
Joe Foster is celebrating being in the second year of running his own company, EA Digital, which specialises in the installation of TV, telecoms and security within both domestic and business environments.
Joe worked for many years as a satellite TV engineer but decided to go it alone after the birth of his second child and hasn’t looked back.
As the business was growing due to word-of-mouth demand in the local area of Galley Common. Joe decided to increase his businesses potential and received start-up business support, which forms part of the Business Growth Warwickshire programme.
The support was delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council and Warwickshire’s five District and Borough Councils. The support is part funded by the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (via Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council), and Warwickshire County Council.
EA Digital received free business advice thanks to the support on offer from the Start-up Programme which comprised of regular one to one meetings with a business adviser. The bespoke support covered all aspects of business foundations including growth strategies, financial management, and extensive marketing planning.
Joe said: “I just wanted a better life for my family both financially but also being able to work my hours around them so I was keen to get all of the support I could. The company vehicle is now fully branded, I’ve grown our presence on social media and have just launched a new website.
“The help has been amazing, and I can’t thank the Chamber and the council enough for giving me this backing.”
The business advice gave Joe an insight into how to market and brand his business to increase the growth potential and from there he was able to win further work and focus on his business full time. Joe said the company has gone from strength-to-strength since receiving the help.
He said: “I’m really pleased at how far we’ve come; word-of-mouth was massive for me in the early days and now I’m building on that. I really want the business to grow and, potentially, look at taking on staff of my own in the not-too-distant future.
“Sarah was a brilliant sounding board and someone I could check-in with if I had an idea and got me to think about where to invest my time and money as the business is growing. I would 100 per cent recommend anyone to make sure they ask for support when they are starting out because it has made a massive difference to me.”
Sarah Humphreys, a business adviser at the Chamber, said: “Joe has been brilliant to work with from day one. If I’ve given suggestions or actions, he’s worked on it straight away and has made significant progress in his business growth.”
Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place Cllr Martin Watson said: “I am delighted that the Start-Up support has proved of such high value to Joe and helped him to unlock the full potential of his business. The Start-Up programme is a perfect example of how collaborative support can work brilliantly to offer businesses exactly the help they need.”
Cllr Kristofer Wilson of Nuneaton & Bedworth Borough Council said: “I’m delighted that the support we have been able to provide EA Digital through the UKSPF funding has enabled Joe to develop and expand his business. As a local council there is a range of support we can provide, and his success story is proof that when you come forward and we work together we can achieve great results. Well done to Joe!”
The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is delivering free-funded business support on all aspects of business. To get started, please email businesssupport@cw-chamber.co.uk or visit https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/business-support/business-start-up/
* To find out what other support is available to your business, please call CW Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747
Women in business support project set to grow
A project created to support women in business is going from strength to strength - and looking for crowdfunding support to enable it to expand further.
The Financial Fit (TFF) is a revolutionary project delivered by the Coventry and Warwickshire Reinvestment Trust (CWRT). Created for women, by women in business, the programme is meticulously crafted to address the distinctive financial needs and challenges faced by women entrepreneurs.
With the immense success of the self-funded pilot cohort, CWRT is now raising funds to be able to offer this free support to all women-led businesses across the West Midlands and to enable the impact of TFF to spread as far and wide as possible.
You can learn more about the impact the programme has had on the participants by visiting the crowdfunding page below where you will also hear inspiring stories about women in business success stories.
CWRT chief executive Sheridan Sulskis said: “It is wonderful that the support offered by The Financial Fit programme has been so effective and so much appreciated. It would be wonderful to extend the programme to reach every woman who needs this support so we truly appreciate every penny and pound that can be donated through our crowdfunding campaign. All our supporters can rest assured that every penny we fundraise will go directly towards helping women in business succeed.
www.crowdfunder.co.uk/p/the-financial-fit---for-women-by-women-1
Workshops simplify Maths for use in everyday life
"Learners take away lots of information and recipes and there is the bonus of a £25 Argos voucher for eligible attendees who attend all three workshops."
Workshops delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire CDA (CWCDA) are helping people to learn how to use everyday maths in a practical way.
The workshops – Multiply: Money, Money, Maths - are delivered locally in towns across Warwickshire and are accessible to anyone who wants to learn basic maths skills for use in their everyday life.
The project works in two ways. Workshops are delivered to groups of people in venues such as Community Centres or Warm Hubs. Meanwhile, CWCDA also liaise with employers to help employees cope with the cost of living crisis. Any employer who would like a workshop delivered to their staff to help them budget and access more support is welcome to contact CWCDA.
All workshops are free and delivered in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere by a small team of professional budgeting advisors.
Kate Henderson, Multiply Budgeting Advisor for CWCDA, said; ”Our workshops are a great opportunity for anyone who is either worried about the cost of living or needs some extra support and signposting. We also offer an extra one-to-one meeting after the workshops for anyone who needs more help than the workshops alone can provide.
“Generally, the workshops are delivered at Community Larders, Libraries, Children’s Centres and workplaces, or any venue where there is a need for some extra support across the County. Feedback so far is that they have been really helpful and informative.
“If you work at a venue or are a business where you have a group of people or employees who would benefit from the free workshops, please contact us on info@cwcda.co.uk or 02476 633911 to discuss bookings for next year. With January just around the corner, we are booking up quickly but still want to reach as many people as we can.”
Workshops consist of a block of three weekly two-hour sessions covering such topics as how to lower your energy bills and find extra support with utilities and phone contracts and healthy eating on a budget and where to find food support in your area (accessing community larders and learning how to cut down food waste alongside making the most of what you have).
The final workshop covers budgeting and puts together all the tips and tricks learned in the previous two weeks. Learners take away lots of information and recipes and there is the bonus of a £25 Argos voucher for eligible attendees who attend all three workshops.
Workshops can run in any location across Warwickshire and the only entry criteria are that the person must be 18+, live in Warwickshire and have a maths qualification of L2 or lower.
To find out more, please visit www.cwcda.co.uk or call us on 02476 633911
- Multiply is commissioned and managed by Warwickshire County Council and part of the UK Government Skills for Life project. Multiply – Money, Money, Maths is one of several projects in Warwickshire under the Multiply banner. For more information on all the projects, please visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/multiply
Mini Rovers in fast lane to growth after Business Growth Warwickshire support
"Having access to some extra expert guidance in the early stages of running a business can make all the difference and that is what the bespoke guidance of the Start-Up programme is designed to deliver.”
A business that offers an entertaining driving experience to children aged four to ten at parties and events is on the verge of growth after receiving help from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.
Simon Cort, who lives in Hillmorton with his wife and two sons, had spent 15 years working for Network Rail when he decided he wanted to start his own company in the midst of the global pandemic.
At the same time, he was researching ideas of building something exciting to entertain his eldest son, who was three at the time, and was looking at mini offroad vehicles and obstacle courses. That desktop research sparked a business idea and Mini Rovers was born.
Simon invested in a fleet of four Series 2 replica Land Rovers that are designed for children aged four to ten and created an offroad obstacle course that can be taken to public and private events – from weddings and parties through to shows and motoring festivals.
Despite having skills and experiences from his previous job, Simon had never run a company before so needed help with some of the business basics. At the same time, John Fitzgerald – a business adviser at the Chamber – got in touch to say that Mini Rovers might be eligible for help and receive fully funded start-up business support.
The Start-up Programme forms part of the Business Growth Warwickshire programme. It is delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council and Warwickshire’s five District and Borough Councils.
The business support Simon received was one-to-one guidance by John, including workshops on social media, marketing, finance and business planning, with the aim of supporting the company’s growth in the future. He said: “It has been great working with John from the Chamber. He actually got in touch with me to let me know I was eligible for the support, which doesn’t happen very often!
“He’s walked me through what was available, what workshops might help me and, because of his own expertise, he’s looked at the website and our social media to help make sure we have got the best possible shop window for the business. It’s been a big help.”
As a result, Mini Rovers is expanding, with plans to invest in more vehicles and take on new staff. Successes include taking centre stage in Covent Garden last Easter when it worked with a production company to create a Peter Rabbit experience utilising the vehicles.
Simon added: “We started out doing some smaller events and parties but we’ve really grown and taken on bigger projects. We’re very popular with weddings and big family occasions but we’ve also been to Silverstone and lots of the big motoring events. It means there’s a possibility of adding more vehicles to the fleet and taking on staff to cover events. It is an exciting time.”
John Fitzgerald said: “It's been great working with Simon on this project. We overviewed areas of the business including looking at the company website and social media from a customer point of view.
“We’ve also been able to help on some of the fundamental aspects of running a business such as finance and planning. We can see the potential for growth for Mini Rovers and we’re pleased to have supported the business in its early stages.”
Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, Cllr Martin Watson, said: “I am delighted that the Start-Up Programme has proved so beneficial to Simon in growing his business. Having access to some extra expert guidance in the early stages of running a business can make all the difference and that is what the bespoke guidance of the Start-Up programme is designed to deliver.”
* To find out what other support is available to your business, please call CW Growth Hub on 0300 060 3747
Business Bootcamp and Networking Event come to Coombe Abbey
The Federation of Small Businesses' Business Bootcamp and Networking event will return to Coombe Abbey in March.
The free-to-attend, interactive event will provide the opportunity to share top tips with fellow small businesses and is a chance to hear from inspirational speakers to help develop and grow your business in 2024.
The Bootcamp will take place at Coombe Abbey from 7.30am to 3pm on Monday March 19th.
This year’s theme is ‘Boost Your Business’ with expert speakers providing top tips and advice that you can implement in your business straight away. The event is designed to benefit entrepreneurs, the self-employed and small businesses.
The event will be hosted by Sandra Garlick MBE, of the Woman Who Inspires Network and renowned local MC and compere, Dave Sharpe. It will also offer plenty of opportunity to network with other local businesses during the day. Exhibition stands are also available. For more information, please visit here
MES Systems joins the Fair Chance Employer fold
A Nuneaton business has celebrated its 35th anniversary by becoming a Fair Chance Employer.
MES Systems, based in Watling Court, Attleborough Field Industrial Estate, decided to mark the milestone by confirming their commitment to inclusive employment.
They did this by signing up to Warwickshire County Council’s Fair Chance programme, which works with education providers and employability groups to help employers to “level up” opportunities by offering residents with supportive needs equal access to careers.
MES Systems, which instals security systems, is particularly keen to work with armed forces veterans who may have electronic communications experience and also with people over 50 who are looking to use their electrical experience in the security industry.
To see a Fair Chance film of the involvement of MES Systems in the programme, please view here: https://youtu.be/YR2qbmMvj5o-
Heather Docksey, Business Skills Support Advisor for the Fair Chance Employment Programme, said: “We are delighted to welcome MES System as a Fair Chance Employer. There could be no more constructive way to mark their 35th anniversary than by taking this positive step towards inclusive employment.
“That so many businesses have already become Fair Chance employers since the programme’s launch in November 2021 is a real tribute to Warwickshire’s business community…but we will always welcome more!”
To learn more about becoming a Fair Chance Employer, please email fairchance@warwickshire.gov.uk or view new jobs portal https://fairchancejobs.warwickshire.gov.uk/
Decarbonisation transport opportunities for businesses in rural Warwickshire
Business in rural Warwickshire are encouraged to explore a new £2 million programme launched to cut emissions and grow local economies.
Under the Transport Decarbonisation Demonstrators programme, funded by the Department for Transport (DfT), businesses can apply for up to £500,000 to run innovative trials that tackle local transport challenges on the ground. Any Warwickshire business can apply but half of the £2million fund is reserved for deployment in rural areas, supporting business there to unlock the benefits of technology and innovation to tackle challenges such as access to jobs and reducing loneliness.
The programme is particularly relevant to North Warwickshire borough and other rural areas of Warwickshire, as it could provide funding for innovative trials that can help to reduce transport emissions in these more rural locations.
For example, the programme could fund trials of new technologies, such as electric vehicles or autonomous vehicles, that could be used to provide more sustainable transport options for people who live in rural areas. The programme could also fund trials of new ways of working and travelling, such as car-sharing schemes, new public transport routes, or innovative shared transport solutions for employees that could help to reduce the number of car journeys made in rural areas.
The competitive grants will be awarded and delivered by Innovate UK - part of UK Research and Innovation - and the UK’s national innovation agency, which helps businesses to grow and develop new technologies.
Businesses can apply to the Transport Decarbonisation competition online until it closes on 8 January 2024. For more information, please visit Competition overview - Transport Decarbonisation Demonstrators - Innovation Funding Service
Warwickshire County Council's Portfolio Holder for Economy & Place, Cllr Martin Watson, said: "The Transport Decarbonisation Demonstrators programme is a great opportunity for businesses to develop innovative solutions to local transport challenges, making their own businesses more cost-effective while also making a positive contribution to the environment. I encourage all businesses in Warwickshire, and particularly those in rural areas, to find out more to see if the programme could benefit them."
School secures long lease through WPM
“Securing this long-term lease supports Arc School Old Arley to continue their brilliant work in their existing location, providing children with a vibrant and safe environment to learn and thrive for years to come."
A school in Old Arley village has agreed a new 35-year lease which will allow it to carry out a long-term programme of investment to its specialist facilities.
Arc School Old Arley, which is part of Kedleston Group, provides vital school placements for children aged seven to sixteen with additional educational needs.
It has agreed a new long-term lease to remain at its current site with Warwickshire County Council, through its managing agent Warwickshire Property Management Ltd (WPM).
Arc School Old Arley moved to the current site in Autumn 2015 and provides a nurturing environment for children with social, emotional and mental health difficulties and associated conditions. The new lease will allow the school to pursue a programme of investment, improvements and upgrades across the site, with the certainty that they will remain at the site on Ansley Lane for at least 35 years. Its current site was originally built as a primary school in 1912.
Kedleston Group was founded in 2006 and provides high-quality schooling and care environments for the children the traditional system does not work for. The group now includes 19 schools and homes across England.
Paul Brosnan, CEO of Kedleston Group, said: “Our school plays an important role for children and their families both locally and in the wider Warwickshire community. Over the coming years, the extended lease agreed with Warwickshire County Council will allow us to continue to invest in Arc School Old Arley and to carry out a long-term programme of upgrades to the school’s specialist facilities, something which will benefit pupils now and into the future. We are extremely proud to be part of the local community and are grateful for their on-going support.
“During the lease extension process, we were greatly appreciative of the co-operation and understanding from the County Council and its partners, particularly Warwickshire Property Management, who were sensitive to our needs and more particularly the needs of our pupils, their families and our colleagues.
“We would particularly like to thank Councillor Margaret Bell at Warwickshire County Council, Portfolio Holder for Adult Social Care and Health and who is also a local District Councillor, for her assistance, which was greatly appreciated."
WPM is part of Warwickshire Property & Development Group (WPDG), which manages the lettings on hundreds of Warwickshire County Council-owned properties.
Councillor Peter Butlin, Deputy Leader of Warwickshire County Council and Portfolio Holder for Finance and Property, said: “Securing this long-term lease supports Arc School Old Arley to continue their brilliant work in their existing location, providing children with a vibrant and safe environment to learn and thrive for years to come.
“I would like to thank everyone involved in securing such a positive outcome, including my Cabinet colleague Councillor Bell.”
Fire and Rescue consultation seeks business input
Warwickshire Fire and Rescue Service (WFRS) is inviting feedback from Warwickshire businesses on a proposed change to its service delivery model.
The public consultation on their Resourcing to Risk approach will remain open until 10 March 2024 and gives you a chance to have your say on the way that WFRS manage their resources. They are keen to hear your views and feedback on the proposal being considered, which optimises the distribution of fire appliances, firefighters and supporting resources so that they better align to risk and demand across the county. For more information on fire safety for businesses in Warwickshire, visit: https://www.warwickshire.gov.uk/fire-safety-businesses-1.
The consultation, available at www.warwickshire.gov.uk/ask summarises the reasons for the Resourcing to Risk proposal and the benefits that WFRS believes the proposed approach offers in improving how they keep Warwickshire’s communities and businesses safe.
There will also be a series of information sessions held in each of Warwickshire’s five district and boroughs in January and February. Full details of these, including how to book a place, are available on the WFRS Eventbrite page.
Anyone interested in viewing the proposal and giving feedback should visit www.warwickshire.gov.uk/ask or, if you need a paper copy of the survey, or an alternative format or language, please call 01926 410410 or email wfrsr2r@warwickshire.gov.uk.
Special Feature
Motor Museum celebrates the past with an eye to the skills of the future
This year marks 30 years of the British Motor Museum at its home near Gaydon. While treasuring and celebrating the region’s glorious motoring past, the Museum, with its school visits, commitment to STEM and recruitment opportunities, is also mapping out a bright future – and businesses’ involvement is very welcome, says Fundraising Development Manager, Cat Stuart Yapp.
On 1 May 1993, the British Motor Museum, known at the time as the ‘Heritage Motor Centre,’ opened its doors for the very first time. Purpose-built to hold the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust’s collections, the Museum was created with the aim to preserve the motoring history of Britain, now and into the future. A charity from the start, public support has helped the Museum collect, conserve and share the collections to inspire this generation and the next.
The Museum is, however, much more than a static collection of cars. Over two million items held in the Museum and Archive tell a myriad of individual stories, revealing the history of those employed within the industry and the social impact of British automotive manufacturing. From opportunities to get up close to vehicles once watched in movies, unlocking memories of first cars, or recollecting days working at one of the many British motor manufacturing plants, the collection gives members of the public an opportunity to share stories and reminisce about an industry that impacted everyone and continues to do so.
Historically, the UK motor industry was centred on the West Midlands, with Birmingham, Coventry and the Black Country all playing important roles in this hub of industry and manufacturing. The Museum and collections therefore play a significant regional role with very real and current personal connections for local people and their families. In addition, the global impact of Britain’s automotive industry means that the collection also has worldwide importance, relevance and reach.
Through learning programmes to inspire children and young people, community outreach work and accessible initiatives, the Museum delivers long-term positive impacts on the lives of individuals across the age spectrum. The calendar of lifelong learning activities ranges from informal learning delivered through daily Museum tours, to curriculum-based formal learning programmes for visiting schools. Community outreach includes reminiscence sessions held at residential care homes and dementia cafes, working with food banks and holding HAF (Holiday and Food) Clubs.
The Trust is a huge advocate of STEM, running STEM sessions for local schools, providing visits for Schools, Colleges and Universities to encourage people into the STEM industries as well as holding STEM specific career days. The latest exhibition explores technology and the changes it brings to the future.
The nature of the business allows the Museum to recruit both skilled and entry level roles – all of which include training and support for increased skill provision. It provides opportunities for growth as well as offering volunteering opportunities of many types.
With such a vast collection, the Museum has a multifaceted approach to raising funds. As well as Museum ticket sales, an onsite and online shop and a café, the Museum has a newly active Fundraising programme and has a vast conference facility with all profits generated from conferencing donated back to the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust.
With spaces suitable from 6-600 delegates, exhibition space, rooms with vehicle access as well as flexible outdoor space, there are a huge range of possibilities and opportunities for events. The Museum has hosted all types of events over the years, from conferences to dinners, and weddings to product launches. –With an in-house catering team, there is a variety of menu packages to help clients make a great impression on delegates. Whether it is a hot buffet at lunch time, a relaxed post conference BBQ or even a drinks reception and dinner in the Museum itself – the team can usually make it happen!
The organisation has significant plans and ambitions to broaden the collection, increase public access and awareness, build capacity and develop more inspirational programmes. All part of the journey to become one of the world’s outstanding museums.
There are a number of ways for local businesses to support the Museum. From choosing the venue for an upcoming conference, to finding out about CSR programmes or getting in touch about becoming a supporter of the Trust. With the support of Warwickshire businesses, the British Motor Industry Heritage Trust can continue to collect, conserve, share and inspire - creating a lasting legacy through positive impact on communities and individuals.
To find out more about the Museum, please visit www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk
For more information about conferencing, please visit: www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk/conferences
News in Brief
Latest local news-in-brief...
UKBIC lands £38m funding to upgrade capabilities
The UK Battery Industrialisation Centre (UKBIC) based at Baginton near Coventry Airport, has secured a further £38m in funding to upgrade the facility's scale-up capabilities. Announced as part of the Autumn Statement, the funding is principally for UKBIC's innovative flexible scale-up line, and builds upon the £36m already committed by Faraday Battery Challenge in May. Preparatory work on construction of the facility is underway.
The announcement follows the inclusion of Coventry Airport and sites adjoining it as part of the West Midlands Investment Zone, which seeks to attract further battery supply chain R&D and manufacturing into the Coventry & Warwickshire area.
https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/ukbic-lands-38m-funding-to-upgrade-capabilities
Midlands Engine Investment Fund delivers £250m in direct investment for region’s businesses
The Midlands Engine Investment Fund (MEIF), delivered by the British Business Bank, has achieved a milestone of £250 million in direct investment for Midlands businesses. With a focus on supporting local businesses, over the last five years, a total of 1,037 investments were made, directly creating a positive impact on local communities. The investment has catalysed additional private sector funding of £372m, further stimulating economic development.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/corporate-finance/midlands-engine-investment-fund-delivers-250m-in-direct-investment-for-regions-businesses/
New figures show growth for south Warwickshire's tourism scene
South Warwickshire’s tourism industry is on track to return to pre-pandemic visitor levels and spending in 2023, according to new figures. Around 9.9 million day and overnight trips were made to south Warwickshire in 2022, resulting in £625 million being spent in the region. This represents increases of 25 per cent and 53 per cent respectively when compared to 2021.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/lifestyle/new-figures-show-growth-for-south-warwickshires-tourism-scene/
New British coachbuilding firm aims to create the ‘most exclusive ultra-luxury cars’
A new British coachbuilding firm has been launched in Warwickshire - heartland of Britain's motor manufacturing industry - to build 'the most exclusive ultra-luxury cars'. The firm is staffed by 'a highly experienced design, engineering, and production team, all of whom have spent decades in-house at the world’s leading luxury automotive brands'.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/manufacturing-engineering/new-british-coachbuilding-firm-aims-to-create-the-most-exclusive-ultra-luxury-cars/
Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce appoints new president
The new president of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce says he plans to use the role to help fix the “disconnect” preventing young people in the region accessing meaningful employment opportunities when they leave their chosen education route. Steve Harcourt, who works for West Midlands accountancy firm Prime Accountants Group, says there is a struggle to link up employers and young people exiting education, particularly in the manufacturing and engineering sectors. He plans to use his role to improve careers advice for young people across the region, including whether university is the right path to take.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/companies/coventry-and-warwickshire-chamber-of-commerce-appoints-new-president/
Lift off for Apollo industrial scheme at Ansty Technology Park
Work is underway on the expansion of a landmark business park that will deliver more than 850,000 sq ft of new industrial space at Ansty Technology Park. Four new speculative units are being constructed as part of the second phase of development at Apollo, Ansty Park in Coventry, a 52-acre site near the M6 and M69 motorways. The first phase Apollo I and II have attracted a couple of local manufacturing business. All four new developments will target BREEAM Excellent and an EPC A rating.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/property/lift-off-for-apollo-logistics-scheme-at-coventrys-ansty-park/
Former Leamington business completes deal with Octopus Energy to becomes Britain's second-largest supplier
Energy supplier Octopus has purchased Shell's Coventry-based household and gas electricity business, Shell Energy. The company, which started out as First Utility based in Leamington Spa as a challenger to traditional suppliers, is now the second-largest supplier in the UK after taking on Shell Energy's 1.3 million customers. Meanwhile Octopus, founded in 2015, now has 6.6 million customers. Earlier this year it took on 1.5 million customers from Bulb after the firm went into administration.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/corporate-finance/octopus-completes-deal-with-coventry-based-shell-energy-to-becomes-britains-second-largest-supplier/
£10 million in funding will help the West Midlands and Warwickshire to close the skills gap
More than £10 million in funding will help the West Midlands and Warwickshire to close the skills gap in six key areas to make the region fit for the future when it comes to talent, according to the region's Chamber of Commerce. The Department for Education awarded £10,304,523 of Local Skills Improvement Funds (LSIF) to the region – the highest amount for any area of the UK.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/companies/10-million-in-funding-will-help-the-west-midlands-and-warwickshire-to-close-the-skills-gap-says-chamber-of-commerce/
Prism Solutions swoops for IT services firm
Prism Solutions has swooped for Inside IT, the Warwickshire based IT services and support provider. Inside IT was founded in the 1980s as a software services provider catering primarily to the automotive industry. It transitioned into an IT services and support company working with the automotive care, local authority/local services, agriculture and non-profit sectors. The company currently supports approximately 1,600 users.
https://www.insidermedia.com/news/national/prism-solutions-swoops-for-it-services-firm
Industrial compressor manufacturer enters administration
Industrial compressor technology business Lontra has ceased trading and appointed administrators with 45 jobs lost. A buyer is being sought for the company's assets. Lontra, based in Napton, with a manufacturing facility in Doncaster, had developed a new blade compressor technology demonstrated a number of innovation and environmental benefits. However, the business encountered significant challenges in introducing its green tech product to the market. This came amidst constraints with both investment funding and industrial capital expenditure in the sector. Upon appointment, 45 employees were made redundant, with seven retained for a limited period to assist the administrators.
https://www.insidermedia.com/news/yorkshire/industrial-compressor-manufacturer-enters-administration
Celebrating two decades of Imagineer as Jane Hytch steps down as CEO
Imagineer are celebrating almost two-decades of achievements as founder member and Chief Executive Jane Hytch steps down to embark on semi-retirement at the end of 2023.Alongside fellow founder members Kathi Leahy, Claire Maddocks and Andrea Simpson, Jane has embedded herself in the arts in Coventry, growing Imagineer into a thriving organisation, housed in the Daimler Powerhouse with National Portfolio investment from Arts Council England, and with a strong future ahead with new CEO and Creative Director Angus MacKechnie.
https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/news/imagineer-111223/
Study finds some local authorities ‘Better Equipped to Host SMEs’
Businesses in the West Midlands are struggling more than in any other area. The research, conducted by Qardus, an ethical funding platform, analysed data from the ONS to determine where SMEs are thriving and where they are in fact struggling. The analysis was based on six different factors, including the following: The Active Enterprise Change between 2021-2023, the change in the count of births of new enterprises 2020-2022, the change in the count of deaths of new enterprises 2020-2022, the change of high growth enterprises per 1,000, and the survival rate of SMEs across 3-5 years.
https://londonlovesbusiness.com/businesses-in-the-west-midlands-are-struggling-more-than-in-any-other-area/
'Positive signs' for region's real estate market as 2023 comes to a close, conference hears
Activity in Coventry and Warwickshire’s real estate market is showing “positive signs” as 2023 comes to a close, a major regional conference heard. Professionals from across the sector came together to discuss the current market, challenges, and law updates at Wright Hassall's Real Estate Conference on Thursday, November 23, held at its Olympus House offices in Leamington Spa.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/property/positive-signs-for-regions-real-estate-market-as-2023-comes-to-a-close-conference-hears/
New Nuneaton Industrial Campus completes
Glencar has completed construction on the final warehouse at a one million sq ft industrial campus in Nuneaton. The company has handed over 771,000 sq ft for pan-European and industrial development company Baytree Logistics Developments and its customer global logistics provider Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK. Baytree Nuneaton, known as the 'Rhenus Campus', comprises two warehouses of 210,000 and 771,00 sq ft on 64 acres.
https://www.insidermedia.com/news/midlands/logistics-campus-final-warehouse-completes
Aldi picks Colliers for national role as it targets 500 more stores
German budget supermarket chain Aldi has created a new national real estate team as it targets opening 500 more UK stores. The UK’s fourth-largest supermarket which has its UK headquarters in Atherstone, recently announced a long-term plan to operate 1,500 UK stores and the distribution network to service them, to meet what it says is growing demand from consumers for a closer Aldi.
https://product.costar.com/home/news/1991062763?tag=18
Regeneration of Coventry city centre moves closer
The transformation of Coventry city centre has moved a step closer with development partners The Hill Group and Shearer Property Group (SPG) submitting a reserved matters application for the first of two phases in the scheme, which includes 991 new homes and 8,000 square metres of new commercial space. The new homes range from studios to three-bedrooms and 200 will be affordable. The remaining 791 private homes will be available through open market sale and rent.
https://thebusinessmagazine.co.uk/property/regeneration-of-coventry-city-centre-moves-step-forward/
Age As Well As Beauty: The oldest commercial properties for sale in the UK
From 11th Century Inns to Office Castles and Church Conversion Opportunities, there is a range of elderly properties on the market around the UK, according to commercial property platform CoStar. This includes the Manor House in Southam, which occupies a prominent retail location in the town. The Grade II listed building, which has ancillary storage/offices above the ground-floor shopfront, was built in the mid- to- late 15th century and has been on the market for more than three years. It has a guide price of £395,000. Simon Hain at EHB Reeves has the listing.
https://product.costar.com/home/news/716321965